Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte said he takes full responsibility for his administration’s "war on drugs" in a video posted on his Facebook account, as he prepares for what he anticipates will be a protracted legal battle at the International Criminal Court (ICC).
Recorded aboard a plane en route to The Hague, the 79-year-old Duterte declared, "Whatever happened in the past, I will be the front of our law enforcement and the military. I said this already, that I will protect you, and I will be responsible for everything." The video, which has already garnered millions of views, marks his first public remarks since being transferred to ICC custody following his arrest in Manila on murder charges linked to his controversial drug crackdown.
The ICC has confirmed that Duterte was surrendered to its custody for charges of murder as a crime against humanity, related to his role in creating, funding, and arming death squads during his administration—a campaign that resulted in the deaths of over 6,200 suspects. He is expected to appear before an ICC judge in the coming days after being moved to a detention unit on the Dutch coast.
Duterte, who led the Philippines from 2016 to 2022, acknowledged the lengthy process ahead, stating, "This will be a long legal proceeding, but I say to you, I will continue to serve my country. And so be it, if that is my destiny." He also reassured his supporters that he is well, despite the gravity of the situation.
His arrest represents a pivotal moment for the ICC, as Duterte could become the first Asian former head of state to stand trial at the international tribunal. In a related development, his daughter, Sara Duterte—the current vice president of the Philippines—arrived in The Hague on Wednesday evening.
The case has drawn significant international attention, with legal experts noting that the proceedings could set an important precedent in holding leaders accountable for alleged crimes against humanity. As the trial looms, the global community watches closely, aware that the outcome could have far-reaching implications for international justice.
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Start your day informed with AnewZ Morning Brief. Here are the top news stories for the 10th of March, covering the latest developments you need to know.
A towering lava fountain from Kilauea shot about 400 metres into the air late on Tuesday (11 March) on Hawaii Island, prompting temporary closures at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and part of a key highway as volcanic ash and debris fell over nearby areas.
Britain has deployed the Royal Navy destroyer HMS Dragon to the eastern Mediterranean to strengthen protection for its military assets in the Middle East after a drone strike targeted a key UK air base in Cyprus earlier this month.
Member countries of the International Energy Agency have unanimously agreed to release 400 million barrels of oil from emergency reserves to stabilise global markets disrupted by the war involving Iran.
The annual pro-Palestinian al-Quds Day march in London, scheduled to take place on Sunday, has been banned by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood following warnings from the Metropolitan Police about the risk of “serious public disorder.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was warned about the "reputational risks" of appointing Peter Mandelson as U.S. Ambassador due to his friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffery Epstein, files released on Wednesday (11 March) show.
At least six people have died after a bus caught fire in Kerzers, Switzerland, in what police say may have been a deliberate act. Witnesses reported a man inside the vehicle set himself alight. Three others were injured and taken to hospital, while authorities continue their investigation.
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